23 Warning Signs Your Kidneys Are Crying for Help

4. Frequent Urination at Night

Waking up often to urinate (a condition known as nocturia) may be an early sign of kidney disease or urinary tract issues. If this happens regularly, it’s worth paying attention.

5. Foamy or Bubbly Urine

Excess protein in the urine, called proteinuria, makes urine appear foamy or bubbly. This can be an early red flag that your kidneys are leaking protein instead of filtering properly.

6. Swollen Ankles, Feet, or Hands

When kidneys cannot remove extra sodium and fluids from the body, swelling (edema) develops in the legs, ankles, or hands. If the swelling is persistent, it may point to kidney dysfunction.